Panthers 7-round 2022 mock draft decided by computer simulation

Carolina Panthers select Jesse Luketa

• Linebacker | Penn State

The computer simulation has solved two major problems for the Carolina Panthers with their opening two selections. Next on the agenda could be finding additional help at the linebacker position for depth or an immediate contributor depending on what transpires with Damien Wilson following his recent arrest.

Carolina does have Shaq Thompson and Cory Littleton to potentially fill the void if the Panthers do end up releasing Wilson once more information is accumulated. This has been a poisoned chalice for the franchise since Luke Kuechly retired and it’s something that held a talented defense back at times last season.

Jesse Luketa is another athletic stud emanating from Penn State who’s done his chances no harm at all with two outstanding years of production before entering the evaluation process. His instincts are good and there is impressive explosiveness over short areas to his play that will also go down well in the pros.

His size could indicate some opportunities to rush from the outside if needed. Although the player will need to improve his tackling, which is sometimes suspect.

With that being said, this is a high-value selection and one that could bring some long-term benefits for a position that continues to miss Kuechly’s extraordinary production.